Chief Accountant - Signage & Outdoor Advertising

Job Summary
Our client, a prominent UAE-based leader in signage manufacturing, outdoor advertising, and digital LED signage, is seeking an experienced Chief Accountant to lead the finance function at their Karachi back office. This senior finance leadership role requires a deep understanding of accounting operations, cost control, and financial reporting within a project-driven, advertising-centric environment. The ideal candidate will bring a strategic mindset combined with operational discipline and have a proven track record managing financials in signage, media production, or advertising sectors.

Key Responsibilities
The Chief Accountant will be responsible for overseeing the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and performance reports. A critical part of the role involves monitoring project-based costing, including budgeting and financial tracking related to signage production, installations, and digital LED screen projects. The candidate will analyze revenue streams from media placements, rental spaces, and advertising campaigns to identify opportunities for cost optimization.

Budget forecasting, variance analysis, and tracking operational KPIs aligned with advertising cycles and installation timelines will be key functions. The role demands ensuring full compliance with IFRS standards, UAE corporate tax regulations, and internal company policies. Maintaining strong internal controls, asset protection measures, and reliable reporting systems is essential.

The Chief Accountant will provide financial insights to support contract bidding, media buying, site acquisition, and equipment leasing decisions. Collaboration with operations, marketing, and legal teams on campaign budgeting and cost-sharing models is expected. Additionally, the role requires liaising with auditors, banks, and external regulatory bodies for audits, financial reviews, and tax filings.

Required Qualifications
Candidates must hold a Chartered Accountant (CA) or ACCA qualification or be a finalist, which is mandatory. The ideal candidate will have between 5 to 10 years of progressive finance experience, preferably within the signage manufacturing or outdoor media advertising industries. Proven expertise in managing finance functions for media installations, digital display advertising, or project-based advertising businesses is highly desirable.

Strong technical skills in project accounting, cash flow management, and cost control are required. Proficiency in ERP and financial software such as QuickBooks, SAP, or Oracle is essential. Advanced Excel capabilities, including data modeling and financial analysis, are also necessary.

Leadership experience is critical, with a demonstrated ability to manage and develop high-performing finance teams. The candidate should be a strategic and analytical thinker with a hands-on approach, capable of effectively partnering with commercial and operations teams. Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills are vital, including experience working in cross-border environments.

Preferred Qualifications and Benefits
While not explicitly stated, candidates with prior exposure to multi-national operations or experience in UAE-based corporate environments will have an advantage. This is a full-time, in-person position requiring a minimum of five years in a leadership role. Applicants must confirm their CA or ACCA qualification status during the application process.

This opportunity offers the chance to lead a critical finance function within a dynamic, fast-growing company at the intersection of manufacturing and media advertising, providing significant scope for professional growth and strategic impact.